The Making of a Cutting Horse | Black & White Cowboy Photo Session

There’s something timeless about a cowboy and his young horse, especially when captured in black and white. Recently, I had the chance to photograph a mini session featuring a cowboy working with his colt, laying the foundation for a future cutting horse.

Using the flag technique, he guided the young horse through the steps of learning to track and respond with precision—building the instincts that will one day make him a sharp and confident cutter. The quiet focus, the dust in the air, the soft yet determined communication between horse and rider—it all came together in a way that felt like stepping back in time.

Black and white photography was the perfect fit for this session, stripping away distractions and highlighting the grit, tradition, and connection between horse and cowboy. There’s no need for color when the story speaks for itself.

Check out the images below and step into the world of horsemanship, patience and raw western authenticity.